As the air turns crisp and leaves start to dance in shades of orange and gold, it’s the perfect time to indulge in a slice of homemade happiness. Introducing my beloved Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake—a treat that not only embodies the flavors of autumn but also elevates any gathering with its showstopping presentation. This dessert is remarkably easy to whip up and brings comfort with every fluffy bite of pumpkin goodness, making it a sure crowd-pleaser. The luscious cream cheese filling adds just the right amount of sweetness that pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or your favorite spiced tea. Ready to impress your friends and family with a seasonal delight that tastes gourmet? Let’s dive into the warmth of the kitchen and create something truly special together!
Why Make a Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake?
Effortless Elegance: This cake is not only a feast for the eyes but incredibly simple to create, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Autumn in Every Slice: Each bite bursts with the rich, warm flavors of fall, ensuring your guests will savor every moment.
Impressive Presentation: The stunning swirl of creamy filling wrapped in tender cake makes it a showstopper at any gathering.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a dessert centerpiece, or pair it with coffee or spiced tea for a cozy afternoon treat. Looking for more pumpkin-themed delights? Try our Pumpkin Spice Gooey cake or Pumpkin Cupcakes Moist for a festive twist!
Store and Share: This cake keeps well in the fridge for days, making it an easy make-ahead option for holidays or special occasions.
Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; use “100% pure pumpkin” instead of pie filling to avoid added sugars/spices.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cake; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; brown sugar can be used for added depth.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and help the cake rise; flax eggs may work for a vegan option.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Provide leavening; ensure they are fresh for optimal rise.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and fragrance; can substitute with pumpkin pie spice blend for additional flavor complexity.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; do not skip this ingredient.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Butter – Offers richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for creamy filling. Can swap for vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Cream Cheese – Forms the center filling; use regular cream cheese for a traditional taste, but low-fat options can affect texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor; can use almond extract for a different twist.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling and creates a creamy texture.
Make this pumpkin spice roll cake a cherished hallmark of your fall gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure your cake releases easily after baking. Once the oven is ready, you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed. This step is crucial, as it helps distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout your pumpkin spice roll cake, ensuring a consistent flavor and texture.
Step 3: Beat Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, beat together the eggs and granulated sugar with a hand mixer until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Then, mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. The bright orange pumpkin adds moisture and flavor, setting the foundation for your delightful roll cake.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until you don’t see any flour streaks. This will keep your pumpkin spice roll cake light and fluffy. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, ready to transform into a beautiful cake.
Step 5: Bake
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared jelly roll pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 14-15 minutes, or until the cake is set and springs back when lightly touched. The edges should slightly pull away from the sides of the pan, indicating it’s perfectly baked and ready for the next step in making your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
Step 6: Roll Cake
Once baked, immediately turn the hot cake onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper. Starting from one short end, roll the cake up gently within the towel, making sure to keep it tight. This rolling technique will help maintain the cake’s shape and prepare it for the delicious filling.
Step 7: Prepare Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar and a pinch of salt, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, add vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. This rich filling will perfectly complement your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake!
Step 8: Unroll & Fill
After letting the rolled cake cool for about 30 minutes, carefully unroll it, gently removing the towel. Spread the prepared cream cheese filling evenly across the surface of the cake, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the cake tightly again, ensuring the filling is well enclosed and ready to dazzle your guests.
Step 9: Chill
Wrap your completed pumpkin spice roll cake in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld. This chilling period is vital for a clean cut and maximizes the flavor, making for a luscious experience when you slice into this delightful cake!
Make Ahead Options
These pumpkin spice roll cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake portion up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the cake, then let it cool completely before rolling it up with the towel, just as you would when making it fresh. After rolling, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The cream cheese filling can be made up to 3 days ahead as well; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, unroll the cake, spread the filling, roll it back up, and refrigerate again to set before slicing. This method keeps all the flavors just as delicious while saving you time on busy days!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
-
Roll While Warm: Rolling the cake immediately after baking prevents cracks. The warmth keeps the cake flexible, allowing for a perfect shape.
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to avoid lumps in your cream cheese filling. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
-
Dust with Sugar: Dust your clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar before rolling the cake to prevent sticking. This simple step makes for an easier unroll later!
-
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture to keep your pumpkin spice roll cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
-
Chilling is Key: Refrigerate the filled roll cake for at least an hour. This setting time helps the flavors meld beautifully and allows for cleaner slices.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
A slice of pumpkin spice roll cake is a delightful treat, but pairing it with the right accompaniments truly elevates the experience.
-
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm, aromatic spices in chai complement the fall flavors, creating a cozy beverage to sip alongside the cake.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast, balancing the spiced cake’s sweetness with a cool, soothing touch.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a savory side, try creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic. The rich texture and buttery flavor provide a comforting counterpoint to the sweetness.
-
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Crispy, savory pumpkin seeds offer a delightful crunch and echo the pumpkin flavor, making for a fun and festive garnish.
-
Maple Pecan Coffee: This flavored coffee warms up chilly autumn mornings, enhancing the earthy, nutty notes of the pumpkin while providing the perfect caffeine kick.
-
Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and walnuts creates a balance between sweet and savory, adding color and vibrant flavor to your table.
Enjoy the harmony of flavors as you serve your pumpkin spice roll cake with these delightful pairings!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
-
Room Temperature: Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap to avoid drying out.
-
Fridge: Store the pumpkin spice roll cake wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing treat!
-
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roll cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. This preserves its delightful flavor and moisture.
-
Thawing Instructions: Thaw the frozen pumpkin spice roll cake in the fridge overnight before serving. Individual slices thaw in about 30 minutes at room temperature.
Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake
Feel free to get creative with your pumpkin spice roll cake, making it truly your own with these delicious twists!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-sensitive guests without sacrificing texture.
-
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter or sprinkle them in the filling for that delightful crunch. They add wonderful texture and flavor!
-
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternative to make this treat suitable for a dairy-free lifestyle. Everyone deserves a slice of this autumn indulgence!
-
Less Sweet: For those who prefer less sweetness, cut the powdered sugar in the filling by half. It will still be amazing while providing a more balanced flavor.
-
Flavor Kicks: Swap out vanilla extract for maple or almond extract in the filling to add a whole new dimension of flavor. It’s a surprisingly delicious twist that enhances this seasonal favorite.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of ground ginger to the cake batter for a spicy twist that can elevate the fall flavors!
-
Citrusy Zing: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the cake or cream cheese filling for a refreshing zing that perfectly balances the richness.
If you’re adoring the fall flavors, make sure to check out our other seasonal treats like Pumpkin Spice Sugar cookies or Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Fall cookies for extra festive inspiration!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Use “100% pure pumpkin” puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling often comes with added sugars and spices that can alter the cake’s flavor. Look for brands that specify “pure” on the label to ensure you’re getting the best quality for your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake.
How should I store my pumpkin spice roll cake?
Store your pumpkin spice roll cake wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If it’s not finished by then, it’s best to freeze it! Just remember to let it cool completely before wrapping. This way, you can enjoy slices of that delightful cake chilled or at room temperature without worrying about it drying out.
Can I freeze the pumpkin spice roll cake? How?
Yes, you can freeze your pumpkin spice roll cake to enjoy later! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator overnight before you want to serve it. If you’re in a hurry, individual slices can thaw in about 30 minutes at room temperature, making them perfect for a quick treat!
What should I do if my roll cake cracks?
Very good question! If your cake cracks while rolling, don’t worry! Roll the cake immediately while it’s still warm; this prevents cracks from forming. If it does crack, you can use the cream cheese filling to cover any imperfections—it’ll look beautiful when sliced, and your guests will be none the wiser! Just remember to gently roll and keep the cake tight for the best presentation.
Can I make this pumpkin spice roll cake dairy-free?
The more, the merrier! To make your Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake dairy-free, substitute regular butter with vegan butter, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. These swaps will help you create a delicious cake without compromising on flavor or texture. Just make sure to follow the same preparation instructions for a delightful result!
Fall Pumpkin Spice Roll Cake that Will Impress Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and grease lightly.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until evenly mixed.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar with a mixer until pale. Add pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly in the pan. Bake for 14-15 minutes or until set.
- Turn the cake onto a powdered sugar-dusted towel, peel off parchment, and roll it up with the towel.
- Beat butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Unroll the cooled cake, spread the filling, and roll tightly again.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Leave a Reply